2002 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1972 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mercedes-Benz E (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 166. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 166. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 79 kg more than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 1972 Mercedes-Benz E is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 166, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1972 Mercedes-Benz E (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 166. (182 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1972 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 166.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1972 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 166 | E |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1416 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2760 mm |
